1. What is the Breakover Angle Formula?

The breakover angle formula calculates the maximum angle a vehicle can traverse without the underside of the chassis touching the ground. It is a critical measurement for off-road vehicles and automotive design.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the breakover angle formula:

Where:

• \( B \) — Breakover angle (degrees)
• \( GC \) — Ground clearance (inches)
• \( WB \) — Wheelbase (inches)

Explanation: The formula calculates the angle at which a vehicle's wheels and chassis geometry allow it to pass over an obstacle without contact.

3. Importance of Breakover Angle Calculation

Details: Breakover angle is essential for off-road capability assessment, vehicle design optimization, and preventing undercarriage damage during obstacle navigation.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter ground clearance and wheelbase in inches. Both values must be positive numbers greater than zero.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is breakover angle important for off-road vehicles?
A: It determines the vehicle's ability to navigate over obstacles without getting stuck or damaging the undercarriage.

Q2: What is a good breakover angle value?
A: Higher values indicate better off-road capability. Typically, values above 20° are considered good for off-road vehicles.

Q3: How does wheelbase affect breakover angle?
A: Longer wheelbase generally results in a smaller breakover angle, making it more challenging to navigate steep obstacles.

Q4: Can this formula be used for all vehicle types?
A: The formula provides a theoretical calculation and works best for standard vehicle configurations with symmetrical geometry.

Q5: How accurate is this calculation compared to real-world testing?
A: While the formula provides a good theoretical estimate, real-world factors like suspension travel, tire deformation, and obstacle shape can affect actual performance.